By Donald Zimba

Lilongwe, May 29, Mana: Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has inaugurated the Bio-Energy from Electrical Energy in Schools (B-EES) Project in a significant stride towards integrating renewable energy with education.

The initiative introduces solar-powered technologies, including a mini oil expeller, into the primary school setting, aiming to provide students with hands-on experience in renewable energy applications.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima, officiated the launch at Kaungwe Primary School in Dowa on Friday.

She emphasized the project’s potential to inspire students towards careers in science and engineering.

“I, therefore, encourage learners to view the initiative not merely as a project but as an opportunity to gain practical skills that align with the nation’s vision for sustainable development,” she said.

Belgian Ambassador to Malawi, Peter Huyghebaert, highlighted collaborative efforts between Malawi and Belgium, noting that the project aims to enhance energy accessibility and educational opportunities in rural areas.

The B-EES Project is implemented by G-HiTech in collaboration with Ministry of Basic Education, funded through a €700,000 grant from Belgium’s FINEXPO and an additional €159,321 from the Walloon region (AWEX).

The initiative aligns with Malawi’s broader educational reforms, such as the Building Education Foundations through Innovation and Technology (BEFIT) program, which integrates solar-powered digital learning tools across primary schools, aiming to reach 3.8 million students annually.

These efforts collectively contribute to Malawi’s goal of expanding access to quality education and sustainable energy solutions nationwide.

B-EES Project exemplifies how international partnerships and innovative approaches can empower students with practical skills, preparing them to contribute to Malawi’s sustainable development goals.